To give the first shearing of sheep to a Kohen

Faith – אֱמוּנָה

• Sefer HaChinuch (Mitzvah 507) explains that setting aside the first fleece reminds us that all livelihood is from Hashem, strengthening faith by dedicating even non-food resources to Him.

Gratitude – הוֹדָיָה

• Rashi (Deuteronomy 18:4) compares Reishit HaGez to other “first” gifts, teaching that gratitude is not limited to food but extends to all blessings. By giving the first wool, we express thanks for material abundance.

Holiness – קְדֻשָּׁה

• Rambam (Hilchot Bikkurim 10:1) codifies that the wool becomes consecrated when given to the Kohen. The act sanctifies something ordinary, elevating wool into a vehicle of holiness.

Agriculture – חַקְלָאוּת

• Talmud (Chullin 135a) notes that the mitzvah applies to flocks when shorn, embedding agricultural labor into the framework of Divine service, just as produce and dough are sanctified.

Priests – כֹּהֲנִים

• Rambam explains that the mitzvah provides for the Kohanim, who lack land inheritance. Reishit HaGez supports their service by giving them a share in the nation’s material goods.

Eretz Yisrael – אֶרֶץ יִשְׂרָאֵל

• The Torah obligation applies only in the Land of Israel, while observance in the Diaspora is rabbinic (Chullin 136a), reinforcing the special sanctity of Eretz Yisrael in agricultural mitzvot.

Community – קְהִלָּה

• By sharing with Kohanim, the mitzvah fosters community responsibility. Every shepherd contributes, ensuring Kohanim are cared for collectively.

Charity – צְדָקָה

• Ramban highlights that like other priestly gifts, Reishit HaGez parallels acts of charity, training Israel to give generously and support those devoted to Torah and service.

Reverence – יִרְאַת שָׁמַיִם

• The act instills awe by reminding us that Hashem claims a portion of even our wool. It shows reverence for His authority over all aspects of livelihood.

Bein Adam L’Makom – בֵּין אָדָם לְמָקוֹם

• Fundamentally, the mitzvah is obedience to Hashem’s decree — dedicating the first of the fleece as a spiritual act of devotion.

Bein Adam L’Chavero – בֵּין אָדָם לַחֲבֵרוֹ

• At the same time, it provides tangible benefit to Kohanim, strengthening interpersonal bonds and communal fairness.